The recent Kwasukela Storytelling Festival, held at Stanwest Hall, brought together Grade 5 learners from several different schools for a day of interactive activities and joyful learning during the school holidays.

The festival also celebrated the launch of The Light Within, a children’s book written by Wendy Mlangeni.
Mlangeni is the founder of the festival.

Her book contains strong themes of faith, identity and the God-given light in every child.

The festival was hosted by Nzambenang Film Productions NPC and celebrated African storytelling with vibrant colours, literacy and creativity.

The phrase Kwasukela means “once upon a time,” and the festival aimed to ignite a love of reading and empower young learners through imaginative experiences.

The programme featured four colourful creative stations designed to teach learners valuable lessons, such as emotional awareness, confidence, and positive values.

These principles were taught through storytelling, reading sessions, puppet theatre, creative tasks and group discussions.

These stations included themes such as faith, hope, power and joy.

Tons of facilitators, assistants, storytellers, motivational speakers, photographers and child minders were present to ensure the safety and comfort of every child who attended the event.

The children were sorted into colour categories and dressed accordingly.

The hall was decorated to resemble a storytelling world, with bright colours and themes.

The learners could enjoy many activities, including a motivational speech that encouraged them to dream boldly and believe in themselves.

Parents and teachers appreciated the festival’s educational impact and noted how excited and inspired the children were after participating.

This event not only promoted literacy but also showcased the power of creative learning.
The festival was a success and obtained its goal of reminding children that stories hold wisdom, healing, joy and the ability to shape futures.

Each child went home with party packs filled with books.

The books were generously donated by the Standerton Public Library, Nal’ibali and One Hope.

Children were eager to return home to read their very own books.